Description
This Cottage Cheese Oat Bread is a high-protein, gluten-free loaf that tastes nothing like store-bought alternatives. Perfect for those hitting protein goals, avoiding gluten, or simply wanting a bread that actually tastes good.
Ingredients
200g rolled oats (about 2 cups)
300g low-fat cottage cheese (about 1 1/4 cups)
2 eggs
2 tablespoons flax seeds
25g pumpkin seeds (about 1/4 cup)
25g sunflower seeds (about 1/4 cup)
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon nigella seeds (optional but highly recommended)
Instructions
1. Place all ingredients in a mixing bowl and mix with a spatula until well combined. Do not overthink this step—just make sure everything is incorporated and there are no dry pockets of oats. The dough will be thick and sticky.
2. Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
3. Transfer the dough into a small loaf tin or shape it freehand into a round loaf. If shaping freehand, place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Bake for 60 minutes. The top should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. If the top starts browning too quickly, loosely cover with foil for the remaining baking time.
5. Remove from the oven and let the bread cool completely before slicing. Do not slice while warm as the bread will crumble. Once cooled, slice as thick or thin as you prefer.
Notes
Don’t Drain the Cottage Cheese: The liquid in cottage cheese is essential for keeping this bread moist. Use it as-is, liquid and all. This prevents the bread from becoming dense as a brick.
Use Certified Gluten-Free Oats if Celiac: Even though oats don’t contain gluten, they can be contaminated during processing. If you have celiac disease, always use certified gluten-free oats to be safe.
Slice When Completely Cool: This step is crucial. Hot bread crumbles and falls apart. Cool it completely before slicing, or let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before attempting to slice.
Expect Dense Texture: This bread is denser than regular bread made with flour. This is intentional and desired. It’s meant to be hearty, filling, and satisfying—not light and airy like traditional loaves.
Nigella Seeds Are Worth Finding: These tiny black seeds are aromatic and unique, adding almost cumin-like depth. If you can’t find them, skip them rather than substituting with something else. They’re truly special.
Make It Sweet Version: Replace pumpkin seeds with chopped walnuts, sunflower seeds with dried cranberries, and nigella seeds with cinnamon. Serve the sweet loaf with honey or jam for delicious results.
Try Different Seed Mixes: Use sesame, hemp, chia, or any seeds you like. Just keep the total at about 50g. Pumpkin and sunflower are traditional, but feel free to experiment with what you have on hand.
Shape into Bagels or Rolls: Divide the dough into smaller portions and shape into bagels or rolls. Reduce baking time by 5-10 minutes for smaller shapes. Great for variety.
Add Fresh Herbs: Dried thyme or rosemary bring savory depth. Add 1-2 teaspoons to the mix for herbal notes that enhance the savoury profile.
Toast It for Best Results: This bread is delicious toasted. The seeds get crunchier, and the flavors deepen beautifully. Even day-old slices become amazing when toasted.
Top with Everything Bagel Seasoning: Before baking, sprinkle the top with Everything Bagel Seasoning for extra flavor and visual appeal during baking.
Slice and Freeze Immediately: Once cooled, slice the loaf and freeze most of it. Defrost slices as needed. This prevents the bread from drying out and extends its life to several months.
Store in the Refrigerator: Unsliced bread keeps in an airtight container in the fridge for about 4-5 days before quality starts to decline.
Freezes Beautifully: Slice the bread before freezing and store in freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or toast directly from frozen for quick breakfast options.
High in Protein: Cottage cheese and eggs create a protein-packed loaf that keeps you feeling full for hours. Perfect for those tracking their macros or protein goals.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American